CD133

CD133 is a protein found on the surface of certain stem cells, which are special cells that can develop into various cell types in the body. It is often used as a marker in medical research to identify and isolate these stem cells, particularly in cancer studies. Scientists consider CD133 important because it can help in understanding the behavior of tumors and the development of therapies, especially for cancers where these stem-like cells contribute to growth and resistance to treatment. Essentially, CD133 helps researchers target and study the cells that may drive disease.